On the 29th of June, Kilmarnock came alive with the Fair Festival that celebrated the people and places that define our town. The event, brimming with energy and community spirit, was a testament to the incredible talent and untapped potential that lies within Kilmarnock. It was a day to remember, largely led by two of our brightest young stars—Harry McVey, a talented DJ, and Josh Woods, an aspiring host with a natural flair for engaging an audience. These young leaders shaped the daytime event, ensuring that the fun and excitement flowed seamlessly from the park to the cross. Their success not only showcased their abilities but also hinted at the bright futures that surely await them. Harry and Josh, along with many others who contributed to the day, exemplify the power and promise of our youth in shaping the future of Kilmarnock—a future they and our town deserves.
The day was a celebration in every sense, with more than 30 local businesses, organisations, and vendors gathering at Howard Park to showcase the best of what Kilmarnock has to offer. From artisanal goods to local pastries and coffee houses, the array of offerings reflected the creativity, diversity, and entrepreneurial spirit of Kilmarnock. We are incredibly grateful for the enthusiasm and positive feedback from these participants, whose contributions were integral to the event’s success. The impact of the day extended beyond the park, with businesses across the town centre reporting record-breaking Saturday sales thanks to the influx of visitors. This surge of activity is just a taste of what lies ahead for Kilmarnock as we continue to build momentum and make the town a focal point of Ayrshire.
As the day turned to evening, the town cross was illuminated by Skerryvore, whose lively set had the crowd breathing life into the centre. They were joined by other talented acts, including Sean C Kennedy, Bemz, and the outstanding local musician David McKay. The evening’s entertainment was hosted by the brilliant Gina McKie, with our very own Josh Woods stepping up to co-host and proving once again that Kilmarnock’s future is in good hands.
The weekend was more than just a celebration; it was a powerful demonstration of what we can achieve when we come together as a community. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with one resounding sentiment standing out: “This is exactly what Kilmarnock needs.” And so, with that in mind, we’re committed to making this the start of something even bigger.
The We Make Kilmarnock project is not just an event; it’s a movement. It’s empowering our community to drive development and revitalisation in a way that reflects our collective aspirations. With £20 million in funds on the horizon, the time to get involved is now. This is your chance to shape the future of Kilmarnock, to have your voice heard, and to be a part of the exciting changes that are coming our way.
The success of this weekend is proof that when we come together, we can bring big ideas to life. The journey to making Kilmarnock the vibrant, thriving town we know it can has just begun. Let’s keep the momentum going and work together to create the future we all envision.